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Falkirk 1 Kilmarnock 2: Di Giacomos late strike punishes Bairns

HAD FALKIRK secured the draw their midfield monopoly should have brought about at the very least, only goal difference would have separated them from Rangers at the top of the Premierleague this morning. Instead, thoughts of the difference a goal scorer might make are this game’s legacy.

Kilmarnock’s winner, devised by Peter Leven and bundled in by Paul Di Giacomo with Stevie Naismith cleverly running across Scott Higgins to obstruct the goalkeeper’s view, reminded Falkirk of what they lack after long periods of sustained dominance thanks to what they do have: a drilled defence and a free-moving midfield.

Where John Hughes’ side lost their shape was in judging when to draw a line under all their pretty triangles and bring attacking moves full circle. A redoubled effort to take Calum Elliot, the Hearts striker, on loan shows this failing hasn’t escaped the manager. “He fits the bill, and I’ll be